Johneri’O Scott Is Broadcasting Hope And Second Chances Through His Talk Show

Second chances are not always given, and when they are, it’s up to the individual to decide what to do with them.

Meet Johneri’O Scott, a man of many talents: a vigorous talk show host, college graduate and influencer. However, it’s his role as an HIV advocate, published author, entrepreneur and media correspondent that truly defines him.

The Quintessential Gentleman recently spoke to the innovative entrepreneur about his success, challenges and much more. Scott also discussed his 10-year journey with HIV and how the diagnosis offered him a second chance at life that he couldn't ignore.

Raised in a small town in South Carolina, Scott has always embraced his individuality. He credits his ability to connect with people and bring smiles to their faces to his upbringing and the significant roles his mother and their active church life played in his life. With a desire to turn every "no" into an “I can, and I will,” Scott graduated from Francis Marion University with a bachelor’s degree in Broadcast Journalism and a master's in New Media Journalism.

While Scott struggled to establish himself in the entertainment industry, he faced a new challenge that tested his will and commitment. This part of his journey became about more than just perseverance; it was about trusting God's plan for him. Interviewing Scott was more than a mere formality—it was a deep conversation with a man who was intentional about sharing not only his own story but also the stories of many living with HIV who might have given up on their lives and dreams. Scott did neither.

Remembering the day he was diagnosed with HIV, Scott recounted that he half-expected the doctor to come back and say it was all a joke. When that didn't happen, he was overwhelmed by a storm of emotions and found himself in a state of shock, struggling to cope with the diagnosis. Despite feeling down at that moment, Scott credits his doctor and mentor with helping him navigate through this challenging time. "They were determined not to let me become another statistic, and so was I," he stated.

After his diagnosis, Scott had an epiphany. "I realized I was always getting or feeling sick because I was thinking sickly," he stated. "I was making myself depressed, and to put things into perspective, I knew that I couldn’t let my dog down, who was gifted to me after graduation. From there, it clicked for me." From that moment on, Scott knew what he needed to do and refused to allow his diagnosis to be the end of his story.

Scott harnessed his talents to create his very own talk show, originally titled Let's Talk with Johneri’O Scott. Inspired by some of his idols like Montel Williams, Ricki Lake and Oprah Winfrey, the show has since been renamed Second Chance with Johneri’O Scott. He credits a friend he met on Facebook for the show's new name.

"I just remember her saying, 'Because of your story and all that you have gone through, what better way to rebrand the name than by just calling it Second Chance with Johneri’O Scott. You’ve dealt with homelessness, unemployment and so much more. After each setback, Johneri’O continued to fight; you’re now the second chance expert!'" This new title sparked a transformation, and from there emerged the person flourishing today.

The Second Chance with Johneri’O Scott has evolved beyond a typical talk show, becoming a platform that fosters discussions about growth and resilience. It raises awareness and bridges gaps within communities worldwide through stories of individuals who have been granted second, third, or even fourth chances.

Looking ahead, Scott confirmed he is working on the second season of the talk show and plans to return to the core reasons that drove him to start this project. "People may know me based on some of the celebrities I’ve interviewed, but my primary goal for this second season is to impact the world in a way that inspires everyone, young and old, to always tell your story and never stop believing in YOU!"

In such a short time he’s partnered with The Soul Train Awards, The NAACP Image Awards, and a countless amount of other high-profile events.